There's a tradition in many New York City jazz clubs: Monday nights are reserved for big bands. The Village Vanguard, the most storied of clubs, has observed this practice since 1966, when the originally titled Thad Jones-Mel Lewis Orchestra were booked in the club for three Monday nights in February. The performances have been taking place ever since.

On Monday, February 13 WBGO brought you its 50th broadcast from The Village Vanguard with the group who continues the tradition, now called the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra. Producer and host of Live at the Village Vanguard, Josh Jackson, said, "It makes a lot of sense to celebrate this exceptional band for our 50th program. The Vanguard Jazz Orchestra represents an ongoing 46 year commitment to the Village Vanguard. The VJO is the cornerstone of Monday night jazz performance in New York. Presenting them on Live at the Village Vanguard was overdue."

Note: These comment boards are available to the general public. Statements expressed in the comment boards do not necessarily reflect WBGO's views. The inclusion of any links does not necessarily imply a recommendation or endorsement of the views expressed within them. For more information, please read our Terms of Service.